Asian companies eye surety bonds to free up capital

Businesses are forced to look for alternatives as the financial crisis prompts banks to withdraw credit lines and increase the cost of borrowing, says risk adviser Marsh.

Asian companies are freeing up much-needed capital by switching to surety bonds from bank guarantees, according to insurance broker and risk adviser Marsh.

The move is in response to banks withdrawing credit lines from some clients who they no longer feel comfortable lending to. When banks are not pulling the lines, they are increasing the cost of credit to customers in Asia.

Where they have the possibility of withdrawing from long-term financing commitments, banks are now exercising their right to...